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Principal Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Rochester, MN

Mayo Clinic

Research Fellow- Neurosurgery

Rochester, MN · On-site

A Research Fellow in Engineering (ENG) is based on role and responsibilities requiring Engineering ... Main skills used in this track may include setting up mechanical research equipment, developing ...

Mayo Clinic

Research Fellow- Neurosurgery

Rochester, MN · On-site

A Research Fellow in Engineering (ENG) is based on role and responsibilities requiring Engineering ... Main skills used in this track may include setting up mechanical research equipment, developing ...

Mayo Clinic

Research Fellow- Neurosurgery

Rochester, MN · On-site

$68K - $80K/yr

A Research Fellow in Engineering (ENG) is based on role and responsibilities requiring Engineering ... Main skills used in this track may include setting up mechanical research equipment, developing ...

Nucleus RadioPharma

Manufacturing Specialist

Rochester, MN · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES: * Leads and supports other team members in a fast-paced manufacturing ... Strong mechanical aptitude and scientific background is required. * Must be capable of providing ...

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All JobsPrincipal Mechanical Engineer JobsPrincipal Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Rochester, MN

Principal Mechanical Engineer information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$87.4K

$147.5K

$173.3K

How much do principal mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal mechanical engineer in Rochester, MN is $147,468.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $138,200.00 and $158,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal mechanical engineer?

A Principal Mechanical Engineer is a senior-level engineering professional responsible for leading mechanical design projects, overseeing teams, and ensuring technical excellence in product development. They often play a strategic role in planning, innovation, and providing expert guidance to solve complex engineering challenges. Principal Mechanical Engineers typically have significant experience, advanced technical knowledge, and are involved in mentoring junior engineers, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring projects meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a principal mechanical engineer expect to handle on a typical team?

As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will often lead multidisciplinary teams on complex projects, overseeing the design, development, and testing of mechanical systems or products. Your responsibilities commonly include setting technical direction, mentoring junior engineers, ensuring quality standards, and collaborating closely with project managers and other engineering disciplines. You may also be involved in client consultations, risk assessments, and making high-level decisions to drive innovation and efficiency. The role often requires balancing hands-on technical work with strategic planning and leadership duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal mechanical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you need deep expertise in mechanical design, analysis, and project management, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering and significant industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), FEA tools, and knowledge of relevant industry standards or certifications (like PE licensure) are essential. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving are crucial soft skills for guiding teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills ensure the successful delivery of complex engineering projects, innovation, and alignment with organizational goals.

What is the difference between Principal Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and oversight of complex mechanical systems, often in leadership rolesDesign, analysis, and testing of mechanical components and systems
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and energy sectorsCommon in similar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles

The Principal Mechanical Engineer typically holds advanced credentials and leads complex projects, focusing on strategic oversight. Mechanical Engineers are more involved in hands-on design and analysis tasks. Both roles are vital in engineering teams, but the Principal Mechanical Engineer usually has more experience and responsibility.

How much does a principal mechanical engineer earn?

A principal mechanical engineer typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles often require advanced skills in CAD software, project management, and engineering design.

What does a principal mechanical engineer do?

A principal mechanical engineer leads the design, development, and testing of mechanical systems and components, often overseeing projects and providing technical guidance. They typically have advanced knowledge of engineering principles, CAD tools, and industry standards, and may coordinate teams to ensure project goals are met efficiently.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester, MN?

For Principal Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Mechanical Engineer jobs in Rochester, MN are:

Principal Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Mechanical Engineer job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,468 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Research Fellow PC - Radiology - Zhang lab

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN

$71K - $84K/yr

Full-time, Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop and apply ultrasound vibro-elastography (USVE) for noninvasive measurement of tissue elasticity across various organs.

  • Work with a team of scientists and physicians to advance understanding and assessment of tissue diseases.

  • Train in the research program of a Mayo Clinic principal investigator and potentially have patient/research subject contact related to the research.

Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 706 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

Responsibilities

A postdoctoral research fellow position is available in the Department of Radiology at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN , under the mentorship of Dr. Xiaoming Zhang. 

The selective candidate will develop and apply ultrasound vibro-elastography (USVE) for noninvasive measurement of tissue elasticity across a range of organs, including the lung and eye.  This role offers the opportunity to work with a team of scientists and physicians focused on advancing the understanding and assessment of various tissue diseases. 

To learn more about Dr. Zhang's research focus and publications, please visit https://www.mayo.edu/research/faculty/zhang-xiaoming-ph-d/bio-00027941


A Research Fellow at Mayo Clinic is a temporary position intended to provide training and education in research. Individuals will train in the research program of a Mayo Clinic principal investigator. Qualified individuals will demonstrate the potential for research as evidenced by their training and peer-reviewed publications and should become competitive for national research grants. Upon background check and CCATS Executive Committee approval, Research Fellow may have patient/research subject contact directly relating to and incidental to the original research program. Proof of English proficiency is required for J-1 Short-Term Scholars, Research Scholars, Professors, Specialists, and Student Interns sponsored by Mayo Clinic.


Qualifications

MD or Ph.D. in an engineering or applied science field (such as Ultrasound imaging, Acoustics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or other closely related fields). Candidates with Ph.D. in an engineering field are strongly preferred. 

Proven research experience in a related field such as in ultrasound, wave propagation, technique development, Matlab programing, experimentation, numerical simulation, or image processing.  Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. Commitment to scientific integrity, research excellence, and continuous professional development, with a high level of motivation and initiative.


Exemption Status
Exempt
Compensation Detail
$71,992 - $84,220/ year; Education, experience and tenure may be considered along with internal equity when job offers are extended.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Schedule
Full Time
Hours/Pay Period
80
Schedule Details
Monday - Friday
International Assignment
No
Site Description
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the 'EOE is the Law'.  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Recruiter
Amy HoffmanQualifications:

MD or Ph.D. in an engineering or applied science field (such as Ultrasound imaging, Acoustics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or other closely related fields). Candidates with Ph.D. in an engineering field are strongly preferred. 

Proven research experience in a related field such as in ultrasound, wave propagation, technique development, Matlab programing, experimentation, numerical simulation, or image processing.  Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. Commitment to scientific integrity, research excellence, and continuous professional development, with a high level of motivation and initiative.

What Mayo Clinic employees say

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919

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